Two thrilling new races in China and Mauritius are being added to the UTMB World Series, which is known for its difficult ultrarunning challenges. The organizers of this international series have hinted that there will be further fascinating advancements that have yet to be revealed. In 2024, there will be a total of 38 events spread across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Oceania, and Africa. Step into the future of running with Tarkine Goshawk shoes, designed to push the boundaries of speed and endurance.

Embracing Nature and Chinese Heritage

In September 2024 (exact dates to be confirmed), “Ultra-Trail Mount Yun by UTMB” invites runners to explore the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of China’s Shanxi province. This event marks the second Chinese addition to the UTMB World Series, following “Ultra-Trail Ninghai by UTMB” in Zhejiang province in April.

China’s passionate running community has long been drawn to the Dacia UTMB Mont-Blanc, the flagship event of the UTMB World Series, with 182 Chinese athletes participating in 2023. With two events now available in the country, Chinese representation on the starting line is poised to grow even stronger.

The event will feature four distances, including races in the 100K, 50K, and 20K categories, as well as a shorter option.

Highlights of the race include the impressive Jade Emperor Tower, situated at the peak of the Mount Yun range at an altitude of 1,629m, and the historic village of Ta’erpo, renowned for its distinctive cave dwellings.

Mount Yun, China
Source: govt.chinadaily.com.cn

Participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the diverse cultural influences of the region, encompassing Confucianism, Buddhism, Taoism, and the local Bun food scene.

An African Gem in Ultra-Trail Racing

A much-anticipated addition to the UTMB World Series is “Mauritius by UTMB.” Making its debut in 2024, this event proudly becomes the second UTMB World Series race on the African continent, joining the esteemed “Mountain Ultra-Trail by UTMB” in South Africa.

Scheduled for June 22-23, 2024, this race on the Indian Ocean Island promises participants agreeable temperatures and abundant sunshine. Registration will open in two phases, with priority registration for UTMB Index holders commencing on October 3, 2023, followed by General Registration on October 5, 2023.

This event caters to a diverse range of runners, extending a warm welcome not only to the flourishing Mauritian trail running community but also to international enthusiasts eager to explore the island’s captivating landscapes. Mauritius, known for its commitment to sustainable activities and leisure, features numerous eco-friendly zones, including lush forests, serene parks, pristine beaches, and vibrant nature reserves, creating an enchanting backdrop for runners and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the island’s rich biodiversity.

The event provides participants with a range of choices, each delivering a one-of-a-kind and exhilarating experience. These options include the challenging Black River Piton 100M, which spans an impressive 135km with a formidable elevation gain of 6100m+. For those seeking a demanding adventure, the Charamel 100K offers a navigational test across a 97km course with an elevation gain of 4400m+. Meanwhile, the Bel Ombre 50K route covers 55km with an elevation gain of 2000m+, providing a balanced mix of challenge and scenic beauty. Lastly, the Le Morne 20K, spanning 22km with an elevation gain of 890m+, is perfect for those looking to explore a shorter but equally thrilling route.

Bel Ombre
Source: mauritiusattractions.com

The event commences in the picturesque village of Bel Ombre in the island’s southern region and culminates at the iconic Le Morne mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Participants can anticipate demanding ascents and technically challenging trails as they traverse the heart of the island’s mountainous terrain.

 

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 Notable landmarks along the route include the captivating Ebony Forest conservation area and the island’s highest point, the Piton De La Rivière Noire.

UTMB World Series 2024 Calendar

Please mark your calendars for these exciting ultra-running events around the world in 2024:

February

  • Tarawera Ultramarathon by UTMB, New Zealand (17-18)

March

  • Chianti Ultra Trail by UTMB, Italy (22-24)

April

  • Istria 100 by UTMB, Croatia (4-7)
  • Ultra-Trail Ninghai by UTMB, China (Exact date in April)

April (Continued)

  • Desert RATS Trail Running Festival by UTMB, USA (13-14)
  • The Canyons Endurance Runs by UTMB, USA (26-27)

May

  • Amazean Jungle Thailand by UTMB, Thailand (2-5)
  • Valhöll Argentina by UTMB, Argentina (9-12)
  • Ultra-Trail Snowdonia by UTMB, UK (10-12)
  • Ultra-Trail Australia by UTMB, Australia (18-19)
  • Trail Alsace Grand-Est by UTMB, France (17-20)
  • Mountain Ultra Trail by UTMB, South Africa (24-26)

June

  • Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB, France (14-16)
  • Trail 100 Andorra by UTMB, Andorra (14-16)
  • Mozart 100 by UTMB, Austria (15-16)
  • Mauritius by UTMB, Mauritius (22-23)
  • La Sportiva Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB, Italy (26-30)
  • Western States 100 Endurance Run, USA (29)

July

  • Trail Verbier St Bernard by UTMB, Switzerland (5-7)
  • Val d’Aran by UTMB, Spain (3-7)
  • Eiger Ultra-Trail by UTMB, Switzerland (17-21)
  • Speedgoat by UTMB, USA (19-20)
  • Restonica Trail by UTMB, France (Exact date in July)

August

  • KAT100 by UTMB, Austria (Exact date in August)

August (Continued)

  • Dacia UTMB Mont-Blanc, France, Italy, Switzerland (26 August – 1 September)

September

  • Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB, Slovenia (Exact date in September)
  • Wildstrubel by UTMB, Switzerland (Exact date in September)
  • Grindstone Trail Running Festival by UTMB, USA (Exact date in September)
  • Paraty Brazil by UTMB, Brazil (Exact date in September)
  • Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB, France (Exact date in September)
  • Ultra-Trail Mount Yun by UTMB, China (Exact date in September)

October

  • TransJeju by UTMB, South Korea (Exact date in October)
  • Kodiak Ultra Marathons by UTMB, USA (Exact date in October)

November

  • Puerto Vallarta México by UTMB, Mexico (Exact date in November)
  • Kullamannen™ by UTMB, Sweden (Exact date in November)
  • Translantau by UTMB, Hong Kong (Exact date in November)

December

  • Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko by UTMB, Australia (Exact date in December)
  • Doi Inthanon Thailand by UTMB, Thailand (Exact date in December)

With these thrilling additions, the UTMB World Series continues to inspire and challenge runners, granting them unique opportunities to explore the natural beauty and cultural diversity of the world’s most captivating locations. Stay tuned for more exciting developments as this series unfolds.